How to Secure Cabinets/Bookshelves to the Wall

Note the space between this cabinet and the wall.

Securing cabinets or shelving to the wall is a must-do, because if they fall, they can cause a lot of damage or hurt someone. In California, it is a great idea to ensure the shelving or cabinet does not crash down during an earthquake. The method used in this article is simple and straightforward.

Things You'll Need

• L-brackets Screws Drywall anchors Drill Screwdriver

Instructions

1. 

   Mark off the spots you intend to install the L-brackets by placing the bracket in the area you wish it to be, and marking off the holes with a magic marker or pencil. Remember to be precise, because it's hard to go back and redo once holes are drilled.

2. 

   Drive a screw into the cabinet side of things using a drill with the appropriate bit, normally a Phillips style head. Once the bracket is secured to the cabinet, you are ready to sink the other end into the wall.

3. 

   Drill the appropriate size hole through the bracket and into the wall. The hole should be the correct size to accept a drywall anchor.

4. 

   Sink the drywall anchor into the wall behind the cabinet. Do not pound it in, just make it flush to the wall. When the screw is inserted into the anchor, it expands, holding fast to the wall it's in.

5. 

   Drive a screw through the bracket and into the drywall anchor in the wall behind it. Make sure the screw is snug, but don't over tighten, because you run the risk of stripping the anchor. Now your shelving or cabinet is secure and tight!